Sweden's Democratic System

Democracy is a political system in which power comes from the people and citizens can influence decisions. The word comes from Greek and means "rule by the people." In a democracy, citizens can choose between several political alternatives, and those who hold power must be able to be replaced through free elections. Everyone entitled to vote has one vote each, no one is forced to vote a certain way, elections are secret, and people also have the right to abstain from voting.

All people, groups, and parties have the right to try to convince others of their political ideas — this is called freedom of expression. An important condition for democracy is that the law applies equally to everyone and that no one can be convicted without a fair trial; this is called the rule of law (rättssäkerhet).

A strong democracy requires citizens to take responsibility. Education in Sweden is built on democratic values, and pupils in compulsory school learn about their rights and about society. Democracy grows stronger the more people who vote, get involved, and gain knowledge about social issues. Ways to influence and take part in society include voting in elections, becoming a member of a party or an association, contacting politicians, demonstrating, starting or signing a petition, discussing politics, contacting journalists or writing opinion pieces, exerting influence at one's workplace (for example through a trade union), and submitting views to one's kommun.

There are problems that can threaten democracy. Low voter turnout can stem from people not trusting politicians, which can widen the gaps between different groups in society. False information and hatred are sometimes spread, for example on social media, to create conflict, and politicians, journalists, and others who take part in public debate are sometimes threatened — which can scare them away from participating.

Segregation means that people of different backgrounds or economic circumstances live apart from one another, while integration means that people of different backgrounds live closer together and feel included. A segregated society can reduce trust in authorities and political engagement, thereby weakening democracy. To counter segregation and support integration, politicians work with measures such as language education and mixed types of housing within an area.